The kind of attorney you need depends on your situation. Here are three tips for hiring an attorney you can follow no matter your legal needs.
1. Research
No matter where you’re seeking legal representation, whether it’s HOA attorneys Ashburn VA or immigration lawyers in Los Angeles, CA, it’s important to do your research. Check what kind of legal situation you’re facing and look for law firms that specialize in that particular area of the law. Check reviews and look up the firm at the bar association.
2. Meet the Prospective Attorney
Once you narrow down your choices, contact your prospective law firms. Check whether a firm charges for an initial consultation and what materials you should bring with you. Ask each lawyer you meet with about their fees, the potential timeline and outcome of your case and what experience he or she has with cases like yours. You want to be comfortable with your attorney and his or her work style. You should also be transparent about your case with your lawyer so he or she can do the best job possible when representing you.
3. Changing Attorneys
People don’t always think about what might happen if they need to change attorneys. You may be in a situation where you feel your attorney hasn’t been representing you well or communication has broken down in some way. Remember you’re always within your rights to seek new legal representation. Make sure you know what steps to take if you’re thinking of getting a new lawyer. Check whether you need the judge’s permission to dismiss your lawyer. Ask your state or local jurisdiction’s bar association whether there are mediation services available.
It’s important to find the best attorney to represent you and your case, as well as to get to know him or her professionally so he or she can best represent you.